The largest natural lake in New Jersey, Budd Lake is mostly shallow, generally 5 to 8 feet deep, though the deep end of the swim area reaches 12 feet. More than 50 underground springs bubble through the sand to bring fresh, cool water to the swim area.

This summer on Budd Lake beach features free swim lessons for young children by a local aquatics teacher who is part of a national water safety program.

The annual Budd Lake Regatta is scheduled for July 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. Attendees will include the South Orange Seaport Society, who will have several scale model remote control boats on display and in action, and the Morris SEAS, who will provide sailing lessons and the opportunity to ride in a sail boat. Pelican Sport Center will also have Stand Up Paddle Board demonstrations.

Horseshoe Lake Beach

Where: 72 Eyland Ave. in Succasunna

Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, weather permitting

Admission: $5 per resident ages 3 and up. For residents, seasonal beach tags are $90 for a family, $35 for an adult, $25 for a child (3 to 17), and free for seniors (over 60). For non-residents, seasonal beach tags are $180 for a family, $70 for an adult, $50 for a child, and $70 for seniors.

The white sand beaches of Horseshoe Lake are close to the park’s other features, including Imagination Station Playground and a 1.65 mile walking path. New this year is a sprinkler park and Adirondack chairs.

“Members of the beach are family-oriented, and a very close-knit group of people,” said lifeguard Danielle Cruickshank.

Summer events include late night swims and live music.

“Horseshoe Lake Beach is the perfect size for my young kids,” beach member Francesca Picone said. “I don’t even want to leave the beach to go on vacation this year.”

Hopatcong State Park

Where: 6 Lakeside Blvd. in Hopatcong

Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

Admission: For New Jersey residents, the park cost $6 on weekdays and $10 on weekends and holidays. For non-residents, it’s $10 on weekdays and $20 on weekends and holidays.

This state-owned park features a beach and swimming area on the nine-mile long Lake Hopatcong, which borders Landing, Mount Arlington, Jefferson, and Hopatcong. People can also take boats onto the lake for a daily or annual fee.